Diploma of Information Technology (CRICOS course code 120251E) is a Diploma delivered by UNSW Global Pty Limited over 1 year. This program is designed for international students seeking a pathway to a Bachelor of Information Technology at UNSW Sydney or direct entry into the IT industry. The course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS) and offers a comprehensive foundation in computing, programming, and systems analysis. With a focus on practical skills and theoretical knowledge, graduates are equipped for roles in software development, IT support, and network administration. The course is delivered at UNSW College in Kensington, Sydney, a vibrant hub for international education. As a CRICOS-registered provider (CRICOS 01020K), UNSW Global ensures all international students have access to ESOS Act protections, including tuition assurance and complaint resolution. This Diploma is an excellent choice for students aiming to study in Australia's tech sector, with Sydney being home to over 200 CRICOS-registered providers and a thriving IT job market.
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Diploma of Information Technology (CRICOS course code 120251E) is a Diploma (AQF Level 5) delivered by UNSW Global Pty Limited over 1 year. The field of education is Information Technology (029999), providing a broad foundation in IT concepts. This course is ideal for students who want to fast-track their studies and progress to a bachelor's degree or enter the workforce. With no work component, it focuses entirely on academic study. The indicative tuition fee is A$34,080, with no non-tuition fees, making the estimated total A$34,080. Note that this does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, or visa application fees. UNSW Global is a private provider with a strong reputation, and the course is fully CRICOS-registered, ensuring quality and compliance with Australian education standards.
This Diploma covers core areas of Information Technology, including programming, database management, web development, and systems analysis. Students develop problem-solving skills and technical proficiency applicable to real-world IT environments. While the exact curriculum is set by UNSW Global, typical AQF Level 5 outcomes include the ability to apply technical knowledge, communicate effectively, and work independently on IT projects. Graduates often progress to bachelor's degrees or entry-level roles such as IT support technician, junior developer, or network administrator. The course is taught in English, requiring an IELTS score of 5.5-6.0 overall or equivalent.
The course duration is 1 year (52 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. It is delivered full-time in English. This is a single qualification, not a dual award or foundation studies program. No work component is included, allowing students to concentrate fully on their studies. The standard study load is typically 20-24 contact hours per week, with additional self-study. International students on a Subclass 500 visa must maintain full-time enrolment and satisfactory course progress.
The indicative tuition fee for the Diploma of Information Technology is A$34,080, as sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026). Non-tuition fees are A$0, bringing the estimated total to A$34,080. These fees are set by UNSW Global Pty Limited and are subject to change. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) — approximately A$600–A$800 per year for single cover, living expenses (A$21,041 per year as per Department of Home Affairs indicative figure), and the Student visa application charge (currently A$1,600). Always confirm current fees directly with UNSW Global at www.unswcollege.edu.au. HeadStart Academy provides this information as a guide only.
General entry requirements for this Diploma include completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent overseas qualification, with English proficiency demonstrated by an IELTS score of 5.5-6.0 overall (no band less than 5.0-5.5 depending on the provider). UNSW Global may also consider foundation studies or pathway programs for students who do not meet direct entry. Specific academic prerequisites vary — contact UNSW Global or visit their website for detailed requirements. Note: This is general guidance; individual applications are assessed by the institution.
No work component. This course does not include a mandatory work component or internship. All study time is dedicated to academic coursework. However, international students on a Subclass 500 student visa have work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. This allows students to gain part-time work experience while studying.
The course is delivered at UNSW College (Kensington) in the suburb of KENSINGTON, NSW. This campus is located near the University of New South Wales (UNSW) main campus in Randwick, approximately 6 km southeast of Sydney CBD. Kensington is a vibrant student area with excellent public transport (bus and light rail) and close to Coogee Beach. Sydney is Australia's largest city, home to over 200 CRICOS-registered providers and thousands of international students. Living costs in Sydney are higher than the national average: typical weekly rent for a shared apartment is around A$250–A$400, groceries A$80–A$150, and public transport A$30–A$50 (with student concessions). The campus provides modern facilities including computer labs, libraries, and student support services.
International students enrolling in this Diploma require a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key conditions include: maintaining full-time enrolment, satisfactory course progress, and complying with work rights (48 hours per fortnight during term). You must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, have adequate Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and demonstrate sufficient financial capacity for tuition, living costs, and travel. The Department of Home Affairs assesses these criteria. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; for visa advice, consult a MARA-registered agent or visit homeaffairs.gov.au. ESOS Act protections apply, ensuring tuition assurance and access to complaints processes.
This Diploma is ideal for students who want a strong foundation in IT without committing to a full bachelor's degree immediately. It suits those aiming for a pathway to UNSW's Bachelor of Information Technology or direct employment in entry-level IT roles. Consider this course if you have a passion for technology, problem-solving, and are comfortable with English at IELTS 5.5 level. Sydney offers a dynamic tech scene with many opportunities for internships and networking. However, if you prefer a longer, more comprehensive program, a bachelor's degree might be better. Also consider living costs in Sydney — the city is expensive but offers high-quality education and lifestyle. As of April 2026, Australia has 1,556 CRICOS-registered providers offering 26,433 courses — this Diploma is one of many options in the IT field.
Ready to start your IT journey? Explore the Diploma of Information Technology (120251E) at UNSW Global and take the first step towards a career in technology. Visit the provider's website for the latest information and application details.
Diploma of Information Technology is a CRICOS-registered programme at UNSW Global Pty Limited. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.